STYLE
Beauty
5 spring dance-worthy updos that won't take all day
The classic side chignon
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For a do that is as classic as it is simple, try this easy chignon. Rachel Leigh Cook’s version is the perfect complement to any elegant look.
How-to: Create a side part and wrap hair into a bun on the opposite side of the part. Secure the bun with a ponytail holder and pins. Don’t worry about making it perfect, the imperfections are what gives it a little something extra.
Tip: Spray an extra strong hairspray all over to make sure your ’do lasts all night long.
Rusk W8less Plus Extra Strong Hold Shaping and Control Hairspray, $5, target.com
s_bukley / Shutterstock.com
The inner rock star in you might want to break away from the classic updo look and try something edgy. Kelly Osbourne’s sleek purple pony is the perfect combination of punk and posh. Even if you don’t want to go for lavender locks, this style would still look fab on any natural color.
How-to: First you’re going to want to make a deep side part. Tease the hair at the crown upwards and then gently smooth over so it lays flat. Pull the rest of your hair into a side pony and secure with an elastic.
Tip: To get Osbourne’s purple color without the commitment, try a bold hair chalk. We heart:
Tint The Hair Chalk in Passion Purple, $18, karmaloop.com
The braided bun
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Looking for something a little more challenging? Lea Michele’s braided bun is perfect for the crafty girl. The braid near the hairline adds soft texture to an otherwise simple look.
How-to: Start by making a side part. Then grab a section of hair, about two inches wide, on the side of your head that has more hair. French braid that section, while making sure to keep the braid flat on the head as you go. Twist the hair around the back of your head and secure it with a few bobby pins. French braid a second section of hair behind the first braid so that the braids run parallel to each other. Pull the rest of your hair around into a low bun and secure with more pins.
Meta Grip Premium Bob Pins Black, $7, sallybeauty.com
The messy bun
s_bukley / Shutterstock.com
Want a look that takes less than three minutes? You found it. Jennifer Lawrence rocks this edgy version of an otherwise classic bun. This look is perfect for the girl who isn’t afraid to get a little messy.
How-to: Simply slick back the hair on the top of your head, then take the rest of your hair and wrap it around in a circle on the crown of your head. No need for bobby pins, just secure the bun with a couple ponytail holders that are placed directly over the bun.
Tip: Use your fingers to work in a bit of hair gel and tousle the pieces around your crown and hairline for awesome texture.
Pantene Pro-V Normal-Thick Hair Style Smooth Definition Maximum Hold Hair Gel, $12, amazon.com
The twist-‘n’-shout updo
Featureflash / Shutterstock.com
Has there ever been a moment when Taylor Swift’s hair didn’t look amazing? She can rock it all: short, long, sleek, curly and everything in between. We love this low-key twisted style. It’s pretty and feminine and not too perfect, which is exactly why we heart it.
How-to: Start with wavy or curly hair. Use a wave iron and beach spray to nab textured waves if you don’t come by ‘em naturally. Loosely twist a 2-inch section at your hairline and pin in place, hiding the bobby. Repeat on the opposite side. Then twist the remaining hair into a bun and pin in place.
Tip: Add a little texture to your hair with a texturizing sea salt spray.
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POSTED IN Beauty, hair, how to, tips, fast, cheap, best products, spring, saver, formal beauty looks, dance, In the mag, April/May 2013